Honoring Veterans

In honor of Veteran’s Day, members of the VFW and currently serving military members gathered this morning to celebrate and honor the men and women who fought for this country. Twin States News was there to capture the moments.

Members of the VFW came together this morning to begin Veteran’s Day by raising the American flag. The ceremony was held in front of the newly restored veteran’s memorial outside of the Lauderdale County courthouse

“As Francis Scott Key said in the National Anthem, the flag flying over the fort as it’s been bombarded, it’s still there through all the trials and trouble but it still raised”, said Danny Smith, VFW Quartermaster, Post 12124. “That’s the key. It seems that everywhere you go America’s flag stands for freedom and that’s the reason why it’s such a big deal having this new pavilion honoring these folks behind me.”

The flag-raising ceremony was followed by an assembly at the city hall to continue the celebration. I spoke with several veterans who shared their experience and told me what today means to them.

“It’s a very big honor, it’s very important. Some people don’t realize but it means a lot to the people who did serve for everybody to remember.” -- Robert Tullose VFW Senior Vice Commander, Post 12124

“It makes us feel good to see the public come out and show their appreciation, most of all we are just so happy to be home. We realize when we go away and stay awhile it means a lot just to come back and when you have people behind you showing their appreciation it means a lot.” -- Rufus L. Greggs, Army veteran

Susan Sylvester served in the Navy for over 20 years. She says she is proud that women in the military have more opportunities today.

“For young girls, there is a lot more opportunity now than it was when I came in”, said Susan. “Today you can be anything you want to be. You will serve right next to the men, you’ll march right next to the men, you will go to school with the men”

Thank you to everyone who has served or is currently serving in the nation’s military.